Josh Bergeron: RADICAL by Design, Regenerative Architecture for Community Repair | Net Podsitive

Josh Bergeron: RADICAL by Design, Regenerative Architecture for Community Repair | Net Podsitive

🧭 LF26 Field Notes: Onsite at Living Future 2026How can design move beyond sustainability to repair, restore, and empower communities?In this episode of Net Podsitive, Richard Garrett speaks with Josh Bergeron, founder of  @TikunDesign  [https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCuEyZWRoFmPTuuKzCBhp-7w], about regenerative design, community engagement, and how architecture can become a tool for social and environmental healing.With more than 20 years of experience in architecture and design, Josh brings a deeply values-driven approach to sustainability and regenerative practice. His work with nonprofits and underserved communities reveals how design can foster thriving, equitable places rooted in trust, collaboration, and long-term resilience.Through his “RADICAL by Design” philosophy, Josh challenges conventional design methods that prioritize aesthetics or efficiency without fully addressing community needs, ecological context, and social impact. Instead, he invites designers to rethink what it means to listen deeply, build trust before transactions, and create spaces that reflect the values and aspirations of the people they serve.🌐 They explore:- RADICAL by Design: How Josh’s framework rethinks traditional design methodologies through relationships, adaptability, deep listening, integration, context, aliveness, and life-giving impact- Trust Before Transaction: Why meaningful design starts with deeper relationships before contracts, budgets, and deliverables- Community Engagement: How involving community members early can help projects reflect local values, lived experience, and real needs- Nonprofit Collaboration: Why resource limitations, diverse stakeholder voices, and funding complexity require patience, flexibility, and creativity- Regenerative Practice: How design can support environmental resilience, social equity, and long-term community well-being- Learning Through Challenge: Why setbacks, constraints, and uncertainty can become opportunities for growth and innovation🛠️ This episode is for:- Architects, designers, planners, and project teams exploring regenerative practice- Nonprofit leaders and community organizers thinking about place-based development- Sustainability and climate justice advocates seeking actionable models for positive change- Students and emerging professionals looking for permission to begin before they feel like experts- Anyone interested in how architecture, community, and sustainability can work together to create meaningful change🔑 Key takeaways:- Prioritize collaboration by engaging communities throughout the design process- Build trust before transactions to create deeper alignment and stronger outcomes- Embrace flexibility when funding, timelines, and stakeholder needs shift- Focus on designs that advance environmental resilience and social equity- Use challenges as opportunities for learning, adaptation, and innovation🔗 Learn more about Tikun Collective:https://www.tikuncollective.com📺 Subscribe for more conversations on regeneration, resilience, climate action, and hopeful futures.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Regenerative Design and Josh Bergeron01:47 Josh's Journey: From Architecture to Regenerative Design05:43 The Meaning Behind Tikkun and Its Relevance07:07 Challenges of Working with Nonprofits and Underserved Communities08:35 Building Trust Before Transaction: A New Approach12:49 Navigating Nonprofit Dynamics and Project Management18:37 Friction Points in Community-Based Projects21:30 Working Smarter: Process Improvements and Lessons Learned25:00 Radical by Design: A Framework for Change27:42 Engaging Stakeholders for Deep Listening29:37 Radical by Design: Overcoming Barriers31:44 Navigating Discomfort in Design Work33:32 Community Challenges and Pushback35:23 Advice to My Younger Self39:03 The Rose Thorn Bud Framework44:31 Hope for the Future and Community Engagement46:55 Finding Connection in Nature49:17 Gratitude and Acknowledgment

From Forest to Framework: The Business of Mass Timber

What does it take to create a successful business in the forestry space while growing collaborations and innovation in an ever-evolving industry?In this episode of Net Podsitive, Richard Garrett speaks with Arnie Didier, CEO of the International Mass Timber Conference, about the intersection of regeneration, business, and community impact. They discuss the growth of the mass timber industry, the importance of collaboration and partnerships, and the role of sustainable forestry practices. Arnie shares insights from his journey in the industry, the significance of mentorship, and the exciting future opportunities in sustainable building. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, networking, and the collective effort needed to drive change in the forestry sector.✨ Key Takeaways:🔹 Building a strong business foundation—why having diverse leadership talent is critical for success.🔹 The power of work ethic—staying committed in a rapidly evolving industry.🔹 Giving back to the community—how generosity and support always come full circle.

Breaking the Bias: Why We Dismiss Bio-Based Materials—And Why We Shouldn’t

In this episode of Net Positive, Richard Garrett and Anjanette Green delve into the world of bio-based materials, exploring the biases and cultural perceptions that hinder their adoption in sustainable design. They discuss innovative materials discovered during the 2024 Green Materials Tour, the importance of education in shifting mindsets, and the social impact of using bio-based solutions. Anjanette shares her personal journey and experiences in the field, emphasizing the need for collaboration and community in promoting sustainable practices. The conversation highlights actionable steps for change and the hope for a future where bio-based materials are embraced as the norm.

Regenerative Operations: The Messy Reality of Doing Good

Even regenerative buildings have problems and just downright crazy stuff that can happen. What does it really take to make a building regenerative—and what happens when things don’t go as planned?In this conversation, Erica McBride, a regenerative operations manager, discusses her experiences managing LEED and Living Building Challenge certified buildings. She shares insights into the challenges of remote management, the importance of hands-on training, and the unique systems in regenerative buildings, including the 'ick factor' associated with innovative waste management solutions. Erica emphasizes the significance of storytelling in regenerative design and operations, her personal journey into the field, and the importance of mentorship. The discussion also touches on practical tips for sustainable practices and the inspiration found in nature.🌿 Key Takeaways:🌎 Small actions create big impacts—sustainability doesn’t have to be overwhelming.🎓 You don’t need a degree to be a changemaker—real expertise comes from experience and passion.🏗️ Even regenerative buildings have challenges—embracing the unexpected leads to innovation.

Making Regeneration Work: Strengths, Storytelling & Scale

How do we make regenerative materials the standard, not the exception?In this episode of Net Podsitive, Richard Garrett speaks with Lisa Conway about transforming eco-anxiety into actionable sustainability practices within the materials industry. They explore the importance of storytelling, the role of community, and the necessity of scaling sustainable practices. Lisa shares her journey in the materials sector, emphasizing the significance of mentorship and the need to embrace discomfort for growth. The conversation highlights actionable tips for integrating sustainability into business and the joy found in collaborative efforts towards regeneration.✨ Key Takeaways:🔹 Tap into your superpower—solve challenges aligned with your values.🔹 Get uncomfortable—growth lives outside your comfort zone.🔹 Laugh so you don’t cry—humor keeps the work human.